The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), also known as Mangalyaan, is India’s first interplanetary mission launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Launched on November 5, 2013, MOM holds significant importance as it represents India’s entry into the elite club of nations capable of interplanetary exploration. Its primary objective was to study the Martian atmosphere, surface, and mineralogy, as well as to search for signs of methane, a potential indicator of life.
Notable achievements include MOM’s successful insertion into Mars orbit on its first attempt, making India the first Asian nation to reach Martian orbit and the fourth space agency globally to do so. MOM’s cost-effectiveness and successful execution demonstrated India’s growing prowess in space exploration.
History & Evolution
The Mars Orbiter Mission program originated from ISRO’s ambitions to explore the Red Planet. Building upon its successful Chandrayaan-1 lunar mission, ISRO embarked on the MOM project, focusing on developing a spacecraft capable of reaching Mars.
The mission’s development involved extensive research and technological advancements, including the development of lightweight components, efficient propulsion systems, and advanced navigation techniques. MOM’s successful launch and insertion into Mars orbit marked a significant milestone for ISRO and India’s space program, showcasing its ability to undertake complex interplanetary missions.
Mission Objectives
The primary goal of the Mars Orbiter Mission was to study Mars’ surface, atmosphere, and mineralogy, as well as to search for methane emissions. Specific objectives included mapping the Martian surface, studying its atmosphere’s dynamics, and analyzing mineral composition using onboard instruments. Additionally, MOM aimed to demonstrate India’s capability to reach Mars and conduct interplanetary missions, fostering technological advancement and international collaboration in space exploration.
Infrastructure and Facilities
ISRO’s space program includes various launch facilities, spacecraft manufacturing centers, and research facilities across India. Facilities like the Satish Dhawan Space Centre on Sriharikota Island serve as the primary launch site for ISRO’s missions, including MOM. ISRO collaborates with international space agencies and organizations, including NASA and ESA, to enhance its capabilities and share expertise in space exploration.
Spacecraft and Vehicles
The Mars Orbiter Mission spacecraft, Mangalyaan, was launched atop a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C25) rocket.
Mangalyaan is equipped with scientific instruments such as the Mars Colour Camera (MCC), Methane Sensor for Mars (MSM), and Thermal Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (TIS), enabling it to study Mars’ surface and atmosphere. Notable missions include MOM’s successful insertion into Mars orbit on September 24, 2014, and its ongoing operations, surpassing its originally planned mission duration.
Achievements and Discoveries
Mangalyaan’s successful insertion into Mars orbit on its first attempt marked a significant achievement for ISRO and India’s space program. MOM’s observations have contributed valuable data to the scientific community, enhancing our understanding of Mars’ geology, atmosphere, and potential habitability. Additionally, MOM’s cost-effectiveness and successful execution have inspired other nations and demonstrated India’s capabilities in space exploration.
Current Status of this program
The Mars Orbiter Mission continues to operate in Martian orbit, conducting scientific observations and collecting data to further our understanding of the Red Planet’s environment. ISRO plans to continue MOM’s operations and leverage its success for future interplanetary missions.
